Maple Baked Beans

A favorite sweetener of the pioneers, maple syrup today lends its distinctive tang to winter dishes.

Total Time: 4:35

Level:
Moderate

Serves:
8

Ingredients

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

½ lb. smoked sausage

1 large onion

4 clove garlic

1½ tsp. paprika

2 tbsp. Dijon mustard

¼ c. tomato paste

⅓ c. apple-cider vinegar

2 c. low-sodium chicken broth

1 c. maple syrup

¾ tsp. salt

½ tsp. fresh-ground pepper

1 lb. navy beans

Directions

Heat oven to 350°F. Heat the oil in a large ovenproof pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Stir in the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent. Add the paprika, mustard, tomato paste, and apple-cider vinegar. Cook for 1 minute. Add the broth, 2 cups water, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and beans; cover and bring to a boil. Place in the oven and bake for 1 hour. Remove the lid and continue to bake — stirring every hour — for 3 1/2 more hours. Serve warm.

Tips & Techniques

Timesaver: Use a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 12 to 14 hours. Stir in the salt and serve.